Darrion Henry is a 6’5″, 280 pound strong-side defensive end from Cincinnati, Ohio. He is a senior at Princeton High, and this year Ohio State received a verbal commitment from him that he will be attending starting in 2020, and playing football as a Buckeye. His recruitment was viewed as a major victory for Ohio State, as Darrion Henry has been heavily sought after by some of the top schools in the nation. He was recruited by associate head coach and defensive line coach Larry Johnson.
How Good is Darrion Henry?
Oh he’s good. Darrion is the No. 2 prospect overall in Ohio, and the No. 11 defensive tackle prospect in the country. Last season he lead the GNC with 8.5 sacks.
What Other Options Did He Have to Consider?
Darrion Henry seriously considered and visited Alabama, Clemson, Georgia, Louisville, LSU, Notre Dame, Penn State, and Pittsburgh, according to Dayton Daily News. These schools have some of the top football programs in the country, and they were all after him, so Henry knew what he was doing when he chose Ohio State. Reportedly he’s long thought of playing for LSU or Ohio State, and he chose to be a Buckeye.
What Does Henry Bring to Ohio State?
Well, to start, he’s clearly shown his stuff playing for Princeton High. He should bring a good balance of talent and athletic ability. Henry isn’t just a big guy to fill up the line; he’s quick and strong. Alabama and Clemson’s dominance has shown the importance of strong defensive tackle play, and Darrion Henry may be just what Ohio State needs to edge closer to their level on defense.
Darrion is a close childhood friend of offensive tackle Paris Johnson, another key member of Ohio State’s 2020 recruiting class. Apparently the two have long had plans of playing college football together, and there dream is coming true. Johnson played at St. Xavier his first three seasons, and is finishing his high school career at Princeton this fall, playing alongside Henry. As No. 1 in the state, Johnson along with Darrion means Ohio State will have to the two top picks in the state of the 2020 class. Ryan Day has been emphasizing in-state recruitment, and these two are evidence of it.
Cincinnati has fallen behind in recent years as far as recruiting by Ohio State, but they’ve made a comeback with 5 players already committing from the 2020 class. Darrion Henry and the others could be the beginnings of a new wave.
Darrion did suffer a pretty serious shoulder injury toward the end of his junior season, and also gained weight due to poor diet. This has raised some concerns about him living up to the expectations. Henry has recently turned things around though. He’s gone through intense rehab, changed his diet, and overall been working very hard to get back on track to be ready. The young man now seems confident, motivated, and ready to go.
Darrion Henry seems to be just what Ohio State needs, and it should be fun to see what he can do in the 2020 season.
Darrion Henry-Young Enters Transfer Portal
Henry-Young saw more playing time in 2021 over his red-shirt season but only saw action against Akron and Tulsa. He entered the transfer portal Monday 12-20-21 and will look to continue his career elsewhere.